______________ is a valve that automatically closes if not held open by an operator.

______________ is a valve that automatically closes if not held open by an operator.

• A. Ball Valve
• B. Check Valve
• C. Deadman Valve
• D. Gate Valve

Answer: (C)

A deadman valve is designed to close automatically if the operator stops holding it open, providing an intentional safety shutoff during transfer or routine operations. In bulk oil storage, this means if the operator releases the control or becomes incapacitated, the valve returns to the closed position, helping to prevent spills and uncontrolled flow. The mechanism is typically a push-to-hold or lever that requires continuous input; once released, a spring or biasing force snaps the valve shut. This differs from other valves: a ball valve and a gate valve are manual control valves that stay in the last set position until someone actively repositions them. A check valve, on the other hand, automatically blocks reverse flow based on pressure and flow direction rather than requiring ongoing operator input, so it does not fulfill the “must be held open” safety requirement.

A deadman valve is designed to close automatically if the operator stops holding it open, providing an intentional safety shutoff during transfer or routine operations. In bulk oil storage, this means if the operator releases the control or becomes incapacitated, the valve returns to the closed position, helping to prevent spills and uncontrolled flow. The mechanism is typically a push-to-hold or lever that requires continuous input; once released, a spring or biasing force snaps the valve shut.

This differs from other valves: a ball valve and a gate valve are manual control valves that stay in the last set position until someone actively repositions them. A check valve, on the other hand, automatically blocks reverse flow based on pressure and flow direction rather than requiring ongoing operator input, so it does not fulfill the “must be held open” safety requirement.